By Belize Live News Staff: As Belize prepares for its 2025 General Elections, the United Democratic Party (UDP) is asserting its right to be the sole political entity allowed to use the color red on the ballot. In a letter addressed to Chief Elections Officer Josephine Tamai, UDP Leader Hon. Dr. Shyne Barrow condemned the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) for allegedly recognizing factions within the party, calling the claim “patently false.”
Barrow emphasized that the UDP Constitution explicitly prohibits factionalism, and any former members who violated this rule were expelled through due process. The letter specifically referenced former UDP member Tracy Panton, who is currently challenging her expulsion in court. However, Barrow clarified that no injunction has been granted to reinstate Panton as a party member.
The letter also cited a court ruling by Justice Tawanda Hondora, which recognized Shyne Barrow as the duly elected UDP leader and reaffirmed the authority of the party’s Central Executive. Barrow argued that the EBC’s alleged recognition of factions undermines the democratic process and could cause voter confusion during the elections.
“The UDP will take immediate court action if the Elections & Boundaries assigns traditional UDP red or any color remotely close to any candidate that is not on the list of official UDP candidates,” warned Barrow.
The UDP has submitted its official candidate list, which includes prominent figures such as Hon. Hugo Patt in Corozal North, Omar Figueroa in Cayo North, and Mark O’Brien in Cayo Central. Barrow reiterated that all political parties and independent candidates should be assigned distinct colors to maintain the integrity of the elections.
With tensions rising ahead of the March 12 elections, this latest dispute underscores the high stakes and fierce competition that characterize Belize’s political landscape
